AN EAST Lancashire MP is calling on the government to rethink proposals that would lower funding for apprenticeships in the area. 


Blackburn MP Kate Hollern warned 37 per cent of funding could be removed for some apprenticeships in parts of the town which she described as ‘staggering’. 


Mrs Hollern was one of 55 Labour MPs to sign a letter addressed to the minister for apprenticeships Robert Halfon saying the impact of the cuts will be ‘devastating in deprived areas’. 


In the letter the MPs claim the proposed upper funding limits for 16 to 18-year-old apprentices paid to colleges and training providers will be cut by around 30 per cent from May 2017, but funding for older apprentices who work at larger employers will be increased. 


Mrs Hollern said: “I have seen evidence that shows proposed changes to the apprenticeship funding system would see up to 37 per cent of funding removed for business administration apprenticeships in parts of Blackburn. These figures are quite frankly staggering. 


“At a time when the government is talking about opportunities for all, this is evidence of them acting against the interests of young people. 


“Apprenticeships are incredibly important to Blackburn, particularly with our younger than average population and I’m sure these proposed changes will cause concern to colleges and apprenticeship providers in the borough. 


“I will continue to monitor the situation and put pressure on the government wherever I can to reverse these proposals.” 


I’m fully committed and would be very supportive of a plan for a properly funded, well-resourced and successful apprenticeship system.

"Sadly, the government’s proposals are going in the wrong direction and is yet another example of the government closing doors for young people, rather than opening up opportunities.” 


A government document outlining the proposals states the apprenticeship reform programme aims to deliver more and better quality apprenticeships which will boost the skills of the workforce, help to improve economic productivity, and meaning more individuals have the chance to pursue a successful career.